In the 19th and most of 20th century, the economy of Kampar revolved around tin-mining. However, many tin-mining companies were forced out of business during the economic recession in the 1980s. Nevertheless, the town's economy recovered slowly by the end of 1980s.
Since the completion of the North-South Expressway, Kampar's status as a bustling town has declined rapidly. Travellers stopped frequenting the town as they chose the more convenient highway. The nearest exit from highway is in Gopeng and Tapah, which is pretty inconvenient for travellers.
At present, the commercial and industrial sectors are main driving forces of Kampar's economy. More recently, its economy is further driven by the construction of the new Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) campus. Besides that, a Tesco Hypermarket is being built (opens on 13 August 2008) nearby UTAR area.
Apart from that, Kampar is well known for its freshwater fishing spots as most of the its surrounding covered by old man made lakes; centuries old abandoned tin mine which turned into natural lakes. Tilapia, Pangasius, Kaloi, Tutu, Tongsan, Catfish, and many kinds of freshwater fish flourish abundantly in these lakes. Much of the lakes are also converted into fish farm, duck farm or other horticulture produce. Some are even converted into recreational area for the public. Currently available supermarkets in Kampar are Minat Supermarket and Target Supermarket. Located witin 300 meter of each other. It is near the bus stop. Besides, these supermarkets daily consumables can be obtain conveniently from the many Chinese retail shops located all over Kampar. Some are as good as small scale supermarket with modern shop design.
Major banks are available such as Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank, AmBank, Agro Bank, Hong Leong Bank, Bank Simpanan Nasional, RHB
